Thinking about buying or insuring a boat in Preveza Greece??

Wednesday 28 November 2012

Rainwater makes new Broads wash-down system a first

 
An innovative, eco-friendly boat wash-down system has recently been designed, built and installed by the team at Cox’s Boatyard, with help from an £8,900 grant from the Broads Authority’s Sustainable Development Fund.

Eric Bishop, the boatyard manager, and his team, were keen to ensure that the run-off water from around 200 boats they wash down each year has no detrimental impact on the environment.

They have devised a closed-loop system that not only harvests and uses rainwater from the boatyard’s roof, but also passes all used water through a set of purifying filters. The cleaned water can then either be used again, or discharged safely into the Broads.

Closed-loop systems have been used on a limited basis elsewhere in the country before, but this is believed to be the first time that harvested rainwater has been incorporated into the design.

Pressure washing is a vital method of keeping boat hulls in a good state of repair, by removing old anti-fouling coating, paint, weed, algae and invasive species, especially in the autumn before boats are over-wintered. Unfortunately, the run-off water from this type of high-pressure cleaning can contain antifouling residues, paint fragments and other chemicals, all of which could work their way into rivers and waterways. The new system at Cox’s means that not only pure, clean water is discharged, but also that it can be recycled and re-used, along with harvested rainwater, many times on an endless loop.

Eric Bishop says: “We are keen to implement any systems that help preserve the future of the Broads for both wildlife and for boat owners. This £18,000 system is part of a major eight-phased development plan for the boatyard. It took only five weeks to install, and it is already doing a great job. We are looking forward to further improving our services to boat owners in the future.’

The system collects rainwater and stores it in a 6250-litre tank, from where it is piped to an area used for pressure washing. Boats that need cleaning are suspended from the yard’s crane, which can lift up to 9.5 tons, and positioned above a large concrete pad, with angled sides that funnel the run-off water into a small, central drain and tank. Here water-borne particles and debris, as well as invasive species such as the ‘killer shrimp’ (Dikerogammarus villosus) settle out from the main body of collected water and sink to the bottom. Killer shrimps are aggressive predators that prey on native shrimps and young fish, and they have recently been found in Barton Broad, so any system that helps to prevent their spread has great environmental importance.

Once the larger debris is removed, an automatic pump sends the waste water via a pipe to a 4000-litre storage tank, which is situated alongside the rainwater tank. When this second tank is two-thirds full, the water is pumped at a rate of 85 litres per minute though two special filters, which are reusable and washable, to remove any remaining pollutants.

The pure, filtered water can then either be re-used, or returned to the river, meaning that even in a drought when there is little or no rain water there is always an ample supply of water available for washing down the boats. Neither does cold weather cause any problems, as all the pipes and cables have special heat cables fitted to them to stop them freezing.

Monday 26 November 2012

Half Broads' boats will see no increase in next year's tolls


Over half the boats on the Broads will see their tolls reduced or remain the same next season as a result of the Broads Authority’s long-term aim to encourage more people to take up boating.
At its meeting on 23 November the Authority agreed an overall rise of 3% in income from tolls from April which will see small boats paying less than this year and larger boats paying more. This compares to other waterways where charges will rise by 4.6%.

A total of 5,700 private rowing, sailing and motor boats out of a total of 10,900 will see a reduction or no increase at all. The charge for private motor boats of under 5 square metres is to be reduced from £97.44 to £90.00 to narrow the gap in charges with unpowered boats of the same size. The annual toll for a small sailing boat will fall from £48.72 to £45.00. Hired day boats of 11 square metres will see a decrease of 2.69% from £439.52 to £427.68. A larger private motor boat of 25 square metres will go up by £12.00 to £267.60.

The charges for seven day short visit tolls are to be reduced from 70% to 50% of the 14 day visit toll as an incentive to visiting craft. Ferries will be charged at the private rate to encourage the return of these historic waterway links.

Chairman of the Broads Authority, Dr Stephen Johnson, said: “The system was reviewed to encourage more people, especially young people, to get out on the water with the aim of promoting health, well-being and the enjoyment of Britain’s magical waterland. It also recognises the popularity of angling which is often done from small boats.”

The Broads Authority still faces big challenges, especially dredging the rivers and broads and maintaining its assets, including 4km of public moorings. Prudent budgeting, down-sizing to smaller offices, astute second-hand deals with equipment for the dockyard and European funding for key dredging projects, has helped with the Authority’s finances.

John Packman, Chief Executive of the Broads Authority, said: “We have a major investment programme underway, including the building of a new workshop to maintain our workboats, the purchase of a new mud wherry for our dredging operations and a programme of safety improvements on Breydon Water including a new, more appropriate patrol launch for the estuary.”

Friday 23 November 2012

How much do you know about Broads invasive species?

 

homepage-image

The Broads Authority is running an online survey to find out if its campaign to curb the spread of new aquatic aliens is reaching water users.

It takes just five minutes to complete and will help in future public campaigns.

The latest arrival to the Broads is the killer shrimp, Dikerogammarus villosus, which was discovered in Barton Broad in March this year and has since spread up the River Ant as far as Wayford Bridge and downstream into the Bure.

All users of the Broads are being asked to check their equipment and clothes for live organisms, wash them off and dry them out thoroughly to avoid spreading the shrimp to other waterways.

Will Burchnall was appointed to the new post of Wetlands Biosecurity Officer by the Broads Authority, co-funded by the Environment Agency, Natural England and Defra, to promote awareness of damaging invasive species.

He said: “Since the arrival of the killer shrimp I have worked closely with boating organisations, sailing and rowing clubs and anglers to raise awareness of the Check, Clean, Dry campaign. We would now like to know if the message has got through or if more work needs to be done.

“We are most concerned to protect water bodies isolated from the main Broads system, such as the Trinity and Whitlingham Broads, from invasion by these aliens as they could endanger the very delicate eco-system. If people could spare five minutes to fill in the survey it will help us to know how effective our campaign has been and where we go from here.”

Tuesday 20 November 2012

Rebel One Design Keel Boat

I had a trip to Belaugh Boats today in Hoverton Wroxham on the Northern Broads. I was amazed to see ‘Rebel One’ sitting in their shed and apparently up for sale as an ongoing project. Shes open to offers…..how much is she worth… any comments?

So far she’s been replanked and refastened on one side.. and she’s had lots of ribs replaced.. She’s holding very good lines with no sagging or hogging identified. The keel looked sound. She still requires the bulkheads and thwarts to be fitted along with the deck and deck fittings etc. Apparently there are some spars somewhere in the shed!



 
Here is mine number 11 Rebel Chieftain.. This will give you an idea of what she could look like. Ive owned some boats over the years but Chieftain will take some beating… the Rebel Class are amazing to sail…perfect for the Norfolk Broads….and there are only a dozen left…..on the planet!
 


 
Thinking of Buying a Boat and Need Help? Call Insight Marine Surveys Ltd. I specialise in Boats of all types, and I will assist you to make an informed decision. Contact me for a detailed and comprehensive report at: steventruss1@aol.com
  

Wednesday 14 November 2012

Bounty 34 Sedan

I had a visit to Sabena Marine in Wroxham yesterday on the Norfolk Broads to Survey this ex hire boat. Launched at the end of the 1970s, the Traveller is best known as the Bounty 34 Sedan. A sleek craft with comfortable accommodation nicely laid out through three cabins.

There is a large rear cockpit housing the engine and hydraulic drive. The cabin is entered through twin sliding doors into the combined saloon and galley which are light and airy due the glazed patio doors and large windows all round. Forward of this there are nicely proportioned sleeping cabins and bathroom.

A small number were built with a flybridge on the roof…

Click this link for a Brochure




Interesting Broads Boat!... looks fast..

              Another boat steering in a staight line! I think its time re-invent the heel bearing....


 
Surveyors comments: Bounty Boats continued and developed the idea used by the F. B. Wilds Caribbean / Bermuda range of utilising hydraulic drive (see pic above) and the significant advantages this offers in boats. As there is no direct mechanical link between the engine and propellor, the use of hydraulic drive allows the engine to be positioned almost anywhere within the boat rather than being in a fixed position in relation to the propeller and the precise alignment this usually requires to reduce vibration to a minimum.

Thinking of Buying a Boat and Need Help? Call Insight Marine Surveys Ltd. I specialise in Boats of all types, and I will assist you to make an informed decision. Contact me for a detailed and comprehensive report at:  steventruss1@aol.com

Thursday 8 November 2012

"Killer shrimp" advice at free angling taster day

Friday 2nd November, Hickling

homepage-image

The Broads Authority’s biosecurity officer will be giving away 30 unhooking mats promoting the Check, Clean, Dry campaign at a free fishing taster day on Friday 2nd November at the Pleasure Boat Inn, Hickling. The campaign aims to stop the spread of the “killer shrimp” in the Broads.

Experienced, qualified angling coaches will be on hand from 10am to 3.30 pm to help aspiring anglers of all ages to catch their first fish. Participants do not need to buy a national rod licence and all equipment and bait is provided. Free membership of the Angling Trust will be given to all under 16 year-olds that attend.

Will Burchnall, the Broads Authority’s biosecurity officer, will help anglers identify the “killer shrimp” and give advice on what they can do to help control them.

The shrimp, Dikerogammarus villosus, is an aggressive hunter which has made the trek from Russia, across Europe to Britain, and is now spreading throughout the Broads. Although it is only 30mm long it has a voracious appetite and feeds on insect life including damselfly nymphs, water boatmen and small fish. If it becomes widespread it could threaten populations of many native freshwater species.

Anglers and boat users are being urged to check, clean and dry their equipment after every use to prevent the spread to isolated waterways such as the Trinity Broads. The event has been organised by the Hickling Playing Field Charity in partnership with the Norfolk County Angling Action Group, the Angling Trust and the Pleasure Boat Inn.

Broom 35 European

I went to Broom Boats yesterday to inspect this 1970’s Classic for Pre-purchase. The 35 European is one of the earlier models to utilise the, now classic, Broom layout of forward guest cabin, midships saloon, aft owners' cabin with en-suite toilet and shower, and the helm on the aft deck. The galley, partly open to the saloon, and a second toilet are between the forward cabin and saloon.

All boats have an internal helm on the port side of the saloon and can sleep from five to seven people, depending on layout variations and the size of the people, with two or three single berths in the forward cabin, two singles in the aft cabin and a single or double on the convertible settee in the saloon. In addition to the door onto the aft deck, the saloon has sliding doors on both sides giving access to the side decks.

Most earlier boats were fitted with the side mounted twin Perkins H6.354 diesels like this example I looked at today of either 115hp or 145hp, the latter being turbo-charged, whilst some had 120hp Ford Mercrafts. Most later boats, from 1978(?), were fitted with twin 140hp Volvos which, because they were taller, required the saloon floor to be raised several inches with a consequent change to the saloon roof, which is noticeably more 'cambered' on these later 'Mark 2' boats.

Build Period: 1973 - 1983

Number Built: 157

Successor Model: Broom 10/70

Average Market Value: £45,000







Surveyors comments: This owner will be taking the boat back to West Mersea in Essex if the sale goes ahead: Here are some basic checks to follow before voyaging.

Before starting the engine:

Open up the boat and ventilate all spaces, especially the bilges and engine compartment. Check for fumes and inspect for water, oil and fuel leakages. Check oil levels in the engine and where appropriate the gearbox. Switch on the main power isolator. Check the coolant level in the heat exchanger if fitted. Ensure that air ducts are free from obstruction. Carry out a visual inspection of the engine paying particular attention to the condition of: belt drives, electrical connections, water hoses, fuel filters and the exhaust system. Check the bilge-pump system and particularly that the suctions are clear. Check for debris which find its way into the bilges and block the pump. Have a manual pump as a back-up. Open the relevant seacocks/cooling water inlet valves. Check fire extinguishers are in place and in good working order.

General:

Make a visual check to ensure that there is sufficient fuel for the intended voyage allowing extra for contingencies. Keep your engine handbook, tool kit and and necessary spare parts on the boat. If in any doubt about the reliability of your machinery have it checked by an expert and ensure it is serviced regularly. Ensure that the battery and connections are as waterproof and secure as possible.

Running Checks:

Allow the engine to warm up slowly. Never apply full throttle to a cold engine! Check that the cooling water is circulating - Look over the side to make sure it's discharging. Check the oil pressure, engine temperature regularly and that the battery is charging. Check the stern gland and all seacock hose connections for leaks. Check the engine visually for signs of fuel leaks, overheating and excessive vibration. Before stopping the engine allow it to idle a few minutes to cool down.

On Your Return:

Inboard Engines - Check the engine and ancillary machinery for any problems or damage - Remember to fix it before your next trip! Close seacocks/cooling water inlet valves and switch off the main power isolator when boat is left unattended.

Thinking of Buying a Boat and Need Help? Call Insight Marine Surveys Ltd. I specialise in Boats of all types, and I will assist you to make an informed decision. Contact me for a detailed and comprehensive report at: steventruss1@aol.com 



Wednesday 7 November 2012

Broom 450

I had a visit to Bells Marina in Brundall today on the South Norfolk Broads. Bells Marina had the only crane in this area that could lift this big Motor Yacht. She must be in excess of 20 odd tons.

As with the 415 the 450 maximises aft deck space by using all-round transom seating. The built in steps on both sides of the transom give access directly to the side decks, with gates each side to enter the cockpit area. Interior layouts reflect the owners priorities and intended use. The standard layout provides for a very large deck saloon, with a third side cabin with two single berths. The alternative is to have a dinette area on the same level as the gallery and delete the third cabin. The forward guest cabin is fitted with an island double as standard, although in some boats twin V-berths have been preferred.

Surveyors comments: One of my personal favourites from Broom. This one is very smart in her Natural pale colourways, she should go very well with the D9 500's and is a huge saving on a new build.



Big powerful crane at Bells Marina

 
Cooney / Broom davit system. These twin arm but single fixing davit arms have proved very popular. They are very strong, simple, take the weight of dinghy and davit etc down to transom base at platform level rather that high up which is good, they also can be removed readily which is useful.


The props have been sent away to be refurbished after some tip damage... shallow waters in Brundall!


 
Side ladder drops in either side deck, the tall hand hold extensions make this a really good ladder.. it folds in half down its length to stow..

                   This one has the typical engine configuration 500HP twin diesels.



Market Value: £475,000 - 500,000

Thinking of Buying a Boat and Need Help? Call Insight Marine Surveys Ltd. I specialise in Boats of all types, and I will assist you to make an informed decision. Contact me for a detailed and comprehensive report at: steventruss1@aol.com

 


Saturday 3 November 2012

Otter 31 Narrow Boat

I Surveyed this little Narrow Boat today at Haven Marina in Lowestoft, UK. Sea Otter the builders are based in Staveley, Derbyshire and are renowed for their high quality alloy boats and excellent customer care.

They are made from a marine-grade aluminium alloy, the same sort of material used for harbour work boats, oil rig support vessels, the Swedish Navy, the Thames water police, some cross-channel ferries and life-boats.







Great hoist at Haven Marina in Lowestoft... a bit TO big for this little lady...


 
The water draining out from the ballast tanks, along with three Eels!! 


                              Some lovely old wooden boats over at Haven... proper job!



Surveyors comments:
I noticed when driving her into the dock that they are light so a strong gust could be more of a problem than with a similar-sized steel boat; but have you ever tried to push off a steel boat which is wedged firmly against a bank? You can do it single handed with a pole when you have a Sea Otter.

Thinking of Buying a Boat and Need Help? Call Insight Marine Surveys Ltd. I specialise in Boats of all types, and I will assist you to make an informed decision. Contact me for a detailed and comprehensive report at: steventruss1@aol.com

 

Thursday 1 November 2012

Eve makes dad's Broads holiday dream come true



The winner of the Broads Authority’s Enjoy the Broads competition is enabling her father to live his dream.

Ron Burke, 63, went out on a day boat on the Broads during a caravan holiday to Norfolk 20 years ago and has wanted to return for a boating holiday ever since.

“I loved it,” he said. “I thought it was absolutely beautiful.”

So when his daughter, Eve Burke, won five days aboard a luxury motor cruiser in the online competition which attracted nearly 3,500 entries, fairy godmother Eve made his dream come true.

Eve, who is eight months pregnant, and has a two year old toddler, has decided not to take up her place but her partner, Stephen Milne, and sister’s husband, Paul Redhead, have accompanied Ron. Eve, who is still working as a teaching assistant, is even taking on Paul’s child-minding duties to enable him to go!

“I was looking on the Enjoy the Broads website to find a boating holiday for Dad and I entered the competition,” she said. “It has worked out perfectly. Dad had to retire early so it’s a nice treat for him. This is the ideal holiday for all three of them.”

The year old 44 ft environmentally friendly cruiser, Fair Majesty, which has a Green Boat Mark, is being provided by Norfolk Broads Direct of Wroxham.

Ron, from Worcester Park in Surrey, said: “I’m very excited. I have been looking at the boats on the Broads for years and years and it has always been my ambition to come back. I have never stayed a night on a boat before so this is a dream come true.

“I love fishing so to go out on one of the broads, with no rush, and stop where we like is magic. Although we’ll be three men in a boat I’m quite a good cook so eating on board isn’t a problem. It will be another thing that I have ticked off in life.”

Thinking of buying a boat?